Mentor Library hosting College Prep Series

By
John Bertosa, The News-Herald & The Morning Journal

Friday, September 27, 2013

The Mentor Public Library is hosting a College Prep Series from Tuesday through Thursday to help people navigate the gauntlet that is college preparation.
The workshops cover finding the right college, the application process and how to find loans, grants and scholarships. Each session is free and open to the public, including teens, parents and adults who want to go back to school.
All of the talks will be held from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at the library’s Main Branch.
On Tuesday, Patricia Saddle, an independent educational consultant from The College Planning Center, will present an overview on all aspects of the college-application process. She will discuss choosing a college, applying and financing a college education.
She will also offer tips to those who are new to the process.
On Wednesday, Shamecka Nelson from Bryant & Stratton College in Eastlake will talk about how to write great college application essays. Then Lisa Wilson, also from Bryant & Stratton, will discuss how to choose a major. Wilson will also explain the application process from the standpoint of a college’s admissions office.
On Thursday, Andrea Tracy, a representative from Lake/Geauga Education Assistance Foundation, will talk about financing a college education. She will discuss loans, grants and scholarships, explain the differences between the three and tell students the best way to get them.
Cailey Williams, an adult reference librarian at Mentor Public Library, organized the series to help parents, teens and anyone else who might be overwhelmed by the college search.
“As a teen, it can be difficult to figure out where to start in the college search and it can be kind of scary,” Williams said. “By setting up this series at the library, we are giving them the opportunity to meet these professionals on a neutral, less intimidating ground. They are encouraged to ask questions and to participate in the workshops.”
While the workshops are open to everyone, the library asks that people register for the programs beforehand. They can do so by calling 440-255-8811 ext. 214 or by visiting www.mentorpl.org.